1. Get Away From the Animal
If you can identify the animal immediately, that can be helpful, but don't waste time searching for it. Get to safety first and tend to the injury. Searching for the animal may waste precious time and if it is defending its territory, you may get another bite for your trouble. Similarly, don't try to catch it or kill it. Remember its markings and report them to your doctor. If the snake is already dead, you can take it with you to the hospital, but be very careful. It may still be able to bite as a reflex action.
2. Stay Calm and Don't Move the Bitten Limb
Venom travels through the bloodstream, and an increased heart rate can speed its progress. Stay calm and get to a hospital as quickly as you can. If you feel yourself panicking, remind yourself that hospitals have anti-venom and will treat the wound properly. Immobilize the poisoned limb and keep from moving it. If you can set a splint, do so, taking care not to make it too tight. Be sure you keep the limb below the heart, as that will further slow the blood flow.
3. Clean the Wound
When you clean the wound, wipe away from it to avoid further contamination. Do not cut the wound or try to suck the poison out; this often makes the problem worse. Similarly, you shouldn't apply ice or cold compresses, which have not proven helpful in poisoning cases. If you have a proper suction device (found in many snakebite kits), you can place it over the wound to draw the venom out, but be sure to follow its instructions closely.
4. Remove Anything Constricting
Tourniquets are a bad idea with venom poisoning. The poisoned limb may swell, and the constriction will cut off blood flow. Take off any rings or jewelry, and remove or cut away clothing that may restrict you. If you have a splint or brace on the wound, make sure it's loose. Monitor the wound and keep checking the patient's vital signs as you move to get help.
